Receivers: Get the Most Out of your Music and Video

If you want to enjoy a premium audio experience, whether it's the high-intensity soundtrack of the Hollywood blockbuster you're watching or the irresistible, get-up-and-dance beats of your favourite playlist, you need a receiver. With a receiver you can add a fully immersive surround sound experience to your movies, TV shows, and games, allowing you to go deeper into the action than ever before. A receiver also gives you numerous connectivity options, so you can explore different possibilities and ultimately enjoy your music how you want.

Depending on your needs, you'll want to consider getting a home theatre receiver or stereo receiver. Read on to find out which type will be the best receiver for you.

Home Theatre Receivers

A home theatre receiver amps up your entertainment experience, featuring HDMI inputs for 4K UHD video, multiple audio channels for surround sound support, and various ports for connecting devices like video game consoles. So, if you’ve hooked up your Blu-ray player and speakers to your receiver and you’re watching the latest action flick, you’ll see every fight in sharp, vivid detail and hear every crash with amazingly lifelike sound. A receiver truly brings out the best video and sound quality from your home entertainment system, whether you’re playing an RPG, listening to your favourite tunes, or watching a 4K movie.

If you want to equip your home theatre space with full surround sound you'll need a home theatre receiver to distribute the audio signals to all of your speakers, whether it's a 5.1- or 7.1-channel system (or larger). Models with wireless connectivity features (like a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth receiver) allow you to cut the cord and enjoy convenient ways to consume your content.

3D Audio Technology

The latest home theatre receivers feature "3D audio" technology, which precisely places audio sources in specific positions and creates an incredibly realistic experience. When you see a plane flying overhead in the movie, the sound of its engines roaring by overhead will make you instinctively duck away.

Currently, the most popular 3D audio technology formats are Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, each with its own unique set of features and requirements. Home theatre receivers models might be compatible with one or multiple formats (e.g. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X but not Auro-3D), so make sure to check the specs while you're shopping.

Stereo Receivers

If music is your main priority, a stereo receiver is an ideal option. These audio receivers transmit music from your phone, record player, laptop, or other compatible device to your home stereo or external speakers. Some stereo receivers also have a built-in AM/FM tuner, so it’s easy to listen to your favourite radio stations. With an A-B stereo receiver, you can also play music from different devices through two sets of speakers.